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Toyota Sets New Sales Records in Europe Despite Market Challenges
Toyota Motor Europe (TME) has achieved an impressive milestone, outperforming the general automotive market across Europe and select adjacent regions during the first half of the year. While the overall European automotive market experienced a slight contraction of 1.54%, Toyota managed to increase its sales by 1%, demonstrating resilience and strategic excellence in a dynamic marketplace.
Market Share and Performance Highlights
TME’s sales figures reveal a robust performance, securing a 7.3% market share by delivering 635,328 vehicles between January and June—a new record for the division. This achievement is noteworthy given market headwinds and shifting consumer preferences toward electrified vehicles. Although North America remains a larger market for Toyota, with nearly 1.237 million sales, the European division’s growth is a testament to the brand's solid positioning and adaptability in changing conditions.
Electrification Drives Growth in Toyota and Lexus Brands
A significant factor in Toyota’s success is the surging demand for electrified vehicles. Sales of hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV) from both Toyota and Lexus increased by 6%, now representing a remarkable 77% of TME's overall sales mix. The Toyota brand continues to be the second-best-selling passenger car marque in Europe, while Lexus enjoyed a 7% increase in sales, capturing a 2.5% share of the competitive European premium car segment.
Toyota Professional, the automaker’s light commercial vehicle division, showed even more dramatic growth, rising by 12%. The electrified vehicle mix in this segment is particularly impressive: BEVs rose by 42%, PHEVs soared by 186%, and traditional hybrid models saw a two-percentage-point lift. These advancements not only highlight Toyota's innovation but also reassert its commitment to providing environmentally friendly mobility solutions and achieving carbon neutrality.
Top-Selling Models and Specifications
Toyota’s most popular vehicles in the first half of the year show broad appeal across segments:
- Yaris Cross: 103,580 units sold
- Yaris: 90,549 units
- Corolla range: 78,920 units
- Toyota C-HR: 76,432 units
- Aygo X: 50,083 units
- RAV4: 43,558 units
Lexus also delivered a strong performance with 44,213 vehicles sold. The LBX Hybrid (14,757), NX (13,607), and UX (4,703) were standout performers, with an impressive 95% of all Lexus sales attributed to electrified models. This solidifies Lexus's reputation for luxury and cutting-edge hybrid technology among premium European consumers.
Design and Performance Edge
Toyota’s modern design language, advanced safety features, and renowned reliability have contributed to strong consumer appeal. Models like the Toyota C-HR and Yaris Cross offer bold styling and dynamic performance, while hybrids like the Corolla and RAV4 blend power with fuel efficiency. Electrified powertrains not only lower emissions but also deliver smooth, responsive driving—meeting the demands of drivers seeking sustainable and high-quality vehicles.
Production Footprint and Regional Reach
TME maintains a significant manufacturing presence with factories in Portugal, the UK, France, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Turkey. Its broad dealer network encompasses around 2,800 retail sales outlets, serving customers in 53 countries that include the EU, UK, EFTA nations, Israel, Turkey, and a range of Central and Eastern European markets.
With delivery numbers reaching 1,217,132 vehicles in Europe in 2024 and maintaining a healthy 7.1% market share, Toyota's strategy of providing an extensive lineup of zero- and low-emission vehicles is clearly resonating with eco-conscious drivers and car enthusiasts alike.
Toyota’s Market-Leading Strategy and Future Outlook
Toyota’s ongoing success in Europe underscores its commitment to innovation, electrification, and customer satisfaction. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Toyota stands out for its adaptable product strategies, eco-friendly technologies, and unwavering dedication to meeting the needs of today’s motorists. For those following the latest in car sales trends and electrified vehicle leadership, Toyota remains a brand to watch.
Source: autoevolution
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